I believe Alabama has built one of the premier football dynasties of all time, but I have to admit I was pulling for Clemson in the National Championship Game Monday night.   If for no other reason, I was pulling for them because of what I’ve heard from and seen in Dabo Swinney over the past few years.

Following Clemson’s incredible win in the National Championship on Monday night, I found an number of leadership lessons in the unrehearsed words that flowed from Coach Swinney in his post-game comments.

This is not a direct quote, but he said when you get a group of young people together who believe – who love each other – who sacrifice and are committed to a singular purpose – great things can happen and that’s what you saw tonight.

That’s an amazing axiom for any team; especially those of us who serve on a church team.   When a group of people (young & old) will come together and believe in the mission/vision of the church and each other – when they’ll love each other in spite of mistakes – when they’ll sacrifice for the mission and one another – and are committed to a singular purpose (the purpose of Christ) – great things can (and will) happen.

Players and coaches are going to miss assignments and calls; mistakes will take place.  However, when we can love as Christ did and face those mistakes with grace, encouragement and accountability and keep our focus on our purpose, amazing things take place.   When I know my teammates love me and will sacrifice for me and for the mission, great things take place.   When we are committed to the singular purpose of Christ and His kingdom and not our own individual kingdoms, great things take place.

If you’re part of a team – or want to be – evaluate your attitude based on these axioms.  Be a part of developing this kind of attitude in your own heart and team, and great things will take place.